HC Deb 31 January 1902 vol 102 cc24-5
MR. SWIFT MACNEILL

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that in 1900 a number of telegraphists in the employment of the Post Office were enlisted for service in South Africa for one year, and attached to the Royal Engineers, and that they are still on active service; and whether in view of the fact that nearly two years have elapsed, arrangements can be made to release those of the men who have applied for permission to return.

THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR WAR (Mr. BRODRICK,) Surrey, Guildford

These men enlisted for a year or for the period of the war; they are accordingly retained in South Africa.

MR. SWIFT MACNEILL

Is it not a fact that many of the men have applied for permission to return?

MR. BRODRICK

I cannot say whether they have or not. They must serve the term of their engagement.